RB Leipzig vs Bayern Munich: The Bundesliga's new rivalry?
Bayern Munich make the trip to Red Bull Arena on Saturday in Julian Nagelsmann's first trip back to take on RB Leipzig in their 6th year in the Bundesliga.
As RB Leipzig has risen from the fifth tier to UEFA Champions League semi-finalists, they have become one of very few teams over the years to challenge record champions Bayern Munich.
Bayern Munich vs RB Leipzig matchup Saturday evening
RB Leipzig have not had a great start to the season, taking just three out of nine possible points. They lost to Wolfsburg 1-0 on Matchday three. Bayern Munich, on the other hand, have taken seven points from nine. After a tie with Borussia Monchengladbach on matchday one, they went on to win against both Koln and Hertha Berlin. Now, the team is in joint-second place in the league.
During the offseason, Bayern Munich signed away three key personnel from RB Leipzig - center back Dayot Upamecano, midfielder Marcel Sabitzer, and head coach Julian Nagelsmann. When they meet again, the rivalry will only be greater.
"I have done the preseason at Leipzig and the first couple of games," said Marcel Sabitzer. "So, of course, I have some insider information."
Bayern Munich have an excellent record against Leipzif. Nagelsmann's new team is likely to defeat his old one. Leipzig are dealing with losing several players and their head coach to their rivals. They may need some time to adjust. The odds are in Bayern Munich's favor.